Cat Food Guide: How to Choose, Mix, and Feed Your Feline Right

If you’ve ever stared at a bag of kibble and wondered if you’re doing it wrong, you’re not alone. Many cat owners get tangled up in dry‑vs‑wet debates, brand hype, and confusing feeding schedules. This guide cuts through the noise and gives you straight‑forward advice you can use today.

Dry vs. Wet: What’s Best for Your Cat?

Dry food (kibble) is cheap, lasts forever, and keeps teeth a little cleaner, but it often lacks the moisture cats need. Wet food supplies that extra water, which helps prevent urinary problems, and usually tastes better. A recent post on our site asked, “Can Cats Live on Dry Food Alone?” The short answer is yes, but only if the kibble is high‑quality and you supplement with water or wet meals.

Mixing both types gives the best of both worlds. Give a small portion of wet food at breakfast and a measured scoop of dry food for the rest of the day. That way your cat gets the hydration boost without breaking the bank.

Brands matter, too. Many wonder if Purina and Fancy Feast belong to the same company. They do—both sit under Nestlé Purina—so you’re not choosing wildly different manufacturers when you pick one over the other. Focus instead on ingredient lists: look for real meat first, avoid excessive fillers like corn or wheat, and steer clear of artificial colors.

Mix‑ins and Feeding Schedules Made Simple

Adding a little something to dry food can make meals more exciting and boost nutrition. Our “Cat Food Additions” article suggests safe options like a spoonful of pumpkin puree for digestion, a pinch of cooked chicken for extra protein, or a splash of low‑sodium broth for flavor. Never add onions, garlic, or dairy—those can be toxic.

How often should you feed? Cats are natural grazers, but most indoor cats thrive on two meals a day. Kittens need three to four meals, seniors may prefer smaller, more frequent portions. A quick tip from our “How Often Should You Feed Your Cat?” post: set regular times, use a measured scoop, and stick to it. Consistency helps prevent begging and weight gain.

Portion sizes depend on weight, activity, and whether you’re feeding dry, wet, or a mix. For a 10‑lb cat, the “How Much Wet Food Does a 10 lb Cat Really Need?” guide recommends roughly 3‑4 ounces of wet food daily, split into two meals, plus about ¼ cup of dry kibble if you’re feeding both. Adjust up or down based on your cat’s body condition.

Remember to keep fresh water available at all times, especially if dry food makes up most of the diet. Some cats love a water fountain—moving water entices them to drink more.

With these basics—choosing quality dry and wet foods, safely mixing in tasty extras, and setting a consistent feeding schedule—you’re set to keep your cat healthy, happy, and less likely to turn you into a midnight snack supplier.